The inaugural conference marks a historic milestone as the first major Hong Kong local media outlet to host a flagship summit in Kazakhstan, following Chief Executive John Lee’s visit to the region in June.

ASTANA, KAZAKHSTAN (September 7, 2026) — Today, the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Hong Kong’s premier English-language news organisation, convenes leading policymakers, business leaders, investors, and innovators at the Hilton Astana for its landmark China Conference: Central Asia 2026. The theme focuses on “Capital, Resources and the Digital Silk Road.” The conference, co-hosted by the South China Morning Post and the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), marks the very first time a Hong Kong media organisation has brought an event of this scale directly to Central Asia.

This milestone event builds upon the strong momentum established following Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee’s official visit to the region in June, highlighting the rapidly deepening economic, technological, and capital links between Greater China and Central Asia.

 

Connecting Eurasia’s Capital and Innovation

With trade between China and the five Central Asian states having surpassed US$100 billion, Central Asia has firmly established itself as a vibrant economic hub. China Conference: Central Asia 2026 serves as a premier platform to examine key cross-border dynamics, including:

• Capital Pathways & Dual Listings: Exploring the newly established Hong Kong–Astana capital bridge, following the milestone dual listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) and Astana International Exchange (AIX).
• Intelligent Mining & Energy Transition: Examining how modern technology, AI, and green investments are upgrading the region’s critical minerals and energy sectors.
• The Digital Silk Road: Addressing digital infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and financial technology across the China-Central Asia corridor.
• Healthcare & Talent Development: Fostering cross-border biotech partnerships and nurturing a highly skilled workforce for Eurasia’s digital future.

The conference featured a keynote address delivered via video by the Hon CY Leung, GBM, GBS, JP, KCM, Vice-Chairman of the CPPCC and Former Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, he announced a Seminar on Global Medical Frontiers will be hosted in Kazahkstan next month, “I am pleased to share that the GX Foundation, a Belt and Road INGO of which I am the founding chairman, will co-host with the Ministry of Healthcare of Kazakhstan and the Nazarbayev University a Seminar on Global Medical Frontiers, covering Clinical Technology, Health System Management and Traditional Medicine, Vector-borne Diseases, Habitat and Disaster, Medical Education and Humanitarian Talent. The seminar will be held in the Nazarbayev University on 5 October.” Mr Leung also highlighted the importance of Central Asia: “Central Asia is a key BRI region and Kazakhstan a key BRI country. I thank the South China Morning Post for bringing the China Conference to Astana, which I am sure will identify opportunities for broader economic and other collaborations between China and Central Asian Countries, particularly through Hong Kong – the super-connector.”

 

Highlighting Hong Kong’s strategic role in connecting regional economies, Hon John KC Lee, GBM, SBS, PDSM, PMSM, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, underscored the city’s unique position in driving international partnership: “Under the unique ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong is the only world city that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage… our business-friendly environment, simple and low tax regime, as well as wealth of multicultural talent and professional services help international companies, including those from Central Asia, tap into the vast Chinese Mainland market.” Lee added, “As we look ahead, the promise of Central Asia as a global growth engine is not to be missed. Hong Kong stands ready as your trusted partner, connecting markets, financing sustainable growth and driving seamless cross-boundary trade. Together, let us build new bridges of opportunities that deliver long-term prosperity for Eurasia and beyond.”

 

Cheng Kefan, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Kazakhstan; highlighted the expanding economic and diplomatic ties across the region, noting: “Central Asia is at the heart of the Eurasian continent… For China, Central Asia is a region of hope. China respects the sovereignty and independence of the Central Asian countries, and this serves as the most reliable guarantee for our international cooperation.” Mr Cheng added, “Hong Kong, acting as a super-connector with strong value-added economic potential, has a great opportunity to give new impetus to economic development. I would also like to note the impact of the visit to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. That visit, in particular, will further strengthen our mutual ties and bring Central Asia to a qualitatively new level on the international stage. I would like to say that all those present here today are prominent representatives of different sectors of the economy. Relations between China and Central Asia would be impossible without your personal contribution and engagement. I hope that we will use this conference as a new platform to expand our cooperation.”

 

Speaking on the expansion of bilateral financial ties, Renat Bekturov, Governor of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), noted: “China is one of Kazakhstan’s key strategic partners, and we see significant potential to deepen our financial and investment ties. Our focus is on turning this strong relationship into greater two-way capital flows, closer connections between our markets, and tangible investment opportunities. The China Conference: Central Asia provides an important platform for bringing together decision-makers, investors and market leaders to advance practical cooperation. Through the AIFC and Astana International Exchange, we seek to connect Chinese capital and expertise with investment opportunities in Kazakhstan and across Central Asia, while opening new pathways for Kazakhstani businesses to access Chinese markets”.

 

Addressing the conference, Tammy Tam, Publisher of the South China Morning Post, detailed Hong Kong’s role in the region: “Hong Kong finds Central Asia, and Kazakhstan in particular, to be an extraordinarily promising market. As an irreplaceable super-connector bridging global business directly with Mainland China, we are uniquely positioned to connect Central Asia’s rising dynamic with global capital and influence.” Tam highlighted, “Today, we bring that connectivity to life right here in this room. We are joined by delegates, industry leaders, and representatives from over 100 companies spanning Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, provinces across Mainland China, and our partners from across ASEAN—alongside guests who have travelled from all around the globe.” 

Outlining SCMP’s commitment to driving regional development, Tammy added, “At SCMP, we take immense pride in our role as a trusted, authoritative voice. We bring our vision directly to Astana to convene leaders across sectors, foster high-level cross-border dialogue, and unlock transformative growth across macroeconomics, financial markets, and regional infrastructure.

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About South China Morning Post South China Morning Post 

The SCMP is the premier English-language news platform rooted in Hong Kong, reaching a global audience with authoritative and comprehensive insights about Greater China, including Hong Kong’s development. With more than 122 years of publishing excellence, SCMP has been providing insights into key news topics in Asia and global dynamics impacting this region through the lens and perspectives of Asia, while hosting high-calibre events and conferences engaging key decision-makers, top government officials, business leaders and experts. Read more with SCMP: www.scmp.com

ASTANA, KAZAKHSTAN (September 6, 2026) — Prior to the welcome dinner for the inaugural China Conference: Central Asia 2026, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nazarbayev University (NU), Kazakhstan’s premier research university.

The signing ceremony took place ahead of a high-level welcome dinner co-hosted by SCMP and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in Dubai. The gathering convened senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, and business leaders from across Hong Kong, Mainland China, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

The strategic partnership formalises institutional linkages between the leading global news organisation and Central Asia’s top-ranked higher education institution—the historic location where Chinese President Xi Jinping first announced the “Silk Road Economic Belt” initiative in 2013.

Commenting on the landmark agreement, Tammy Tam, Publisher of the South China Morning Post, highlighted the strategic and historical significance of the collaboration: “We are deeply honored to forge this landmark partnership with Nazarbayev University, building upon a legacy of global connectivity first championed in Kazakhstan back in 2013 when Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the historic ‘Silk Road Economic Belt’ initiative. This MoU represents a vital bridge between leading academic research and global media excellence. As a premier voice on China and Asia, the South China Morning Post is proud to collaborate with Kazakhstan’s flagship university to elevate cross-border storytelling, foster deeper cultural and educational exchange, and illuminate Eurasia’s critical role in shaping the future of global connectivity and building a talent pool for the region.” 

Emphasising the mutual benefits for academic reach and international visibility, Professor Waqar Ahmad, President of Nazarbayev University, stated, “For Nazarbayev University, partnering with a globally recognised media organisation such as South China Morning Post opens significant opportunities to bring our academic expertise and research to a much wider international audience. With its strong reach across one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions, SCMP can help strengthen the visibility of NU, while our academic expertise can also provide SCMP with new perspectives and insights into Central Asia. The partnership also creates new opportunities for our students to access knowledge and perspectives from a leading international media organisation, while bringing our academic communities closer together. Building meaningful international partnerships of this kind is an important part of our journey towards becoming a world-class university”. 

 

Key Objectives of the MoU:

• Institutional Partnerships: Formalising strategic, long-term ties between both organisations.
• Academic Exchange: Fostering academic dialogue and knowledge-sharing between East and Central Asia.
• Digital Silk Road: Connecting Hong Kong’s capital and media reach with Central Asia’s tech and resource ecosystem.

 

The ceremony set the stage for SCMP’s flagship China Conference: Central Asia 2026, themed “Hub-to-Hub Gateways to the Digital Silk Road,” focusing on capital flows, technological innovation, and economic potential across Central Asia.

 

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About South China Morning Post South China Morning Post 

The SCMP is the premier English-language news platform rooted in Hong Kong, reaching a global audience with authoritative and comprehensive insights about Greater China, including Hong Kong’s development. With more than 122 years of publishing excellence, SCMP has been providing insights into key news topics in Asia and global dynamics impacting this region through the lens and perspectives of Asia, while hosting high-calibre events and conferences engaging key decision-makers, top government officials, business leaders and experts. Read more with SCMP: www.scmp.com

About Nazarbayev University

Nazarbayev University is a modern, research-intensive university located in Astana, Kazakhstan. Ranked among the top institutions in Eurasia, NU is dedicated to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing leaders for the region and beyond. NU was announced in 2006 by the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and founded in 2010 as the country’s flagship institution for academics and researchers to collaborate. The university is also the country’s first global-level, autonomous research university, granted by law on 19 January 2011, “On the status of ‘NU,’ ‘Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools’ and ‘Nazarbayev Fund.’ https://nu.edu.kz/  

 

Hong Kong (September 7, 2026)— The inaugural Global Education Summit, co-organised by SCMP Learn and HSBC Premier at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, successfully convened nearly 11,000 attendees over two days to decode the future of learning, talent development, and international study pathways. Preparing young minds for tomorrow’s world has never been more competitive or complex.

Success depends on more than grades alone; it requires informed decision-making, early strategic planning, and timely access to the right guidance and opportunities. The landmark summit brought together visionary principals, distinguished policymakers, and prominent C-suite leaders across two immersive days to help families chart the road ahead through curated panels, interactive workshops, exhibition booths featuring representatives from 30+ leading local and overseas institutions, and candid dialogues with decision-makers.

Spotlighting both inbound education journeys into Hong Kong and outbound study routes to the UK, US, Singapore, and Australia, the summit delivered practical insights connecting academic choices to real-world outcomes.

 

 

 

Outlining the government’s strategic focus on strengthening local talent pipelines and expanding academic infrastructure, Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin highlighted concrete targets for STEAM discipline enrollment and university development: “We have set a clear goal. By the 2026-27 academic year, 35 per cent of all undergraduate students at our government-funded universities will be enrolled in STEAM disciplines. To support this, in the 2025-28 triennium, our universities are launching 27 undergraduate programmes related to STEAM, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, creative industries, sustainable development and data science. These are not theoretical courses. We drastically increased the reserved land for the campus area of the NMUT from the initial 60 hectares to approximately 300 hectares. When integrated with surrounding technology paths, industry zones, and vibrant communities, the broad and macro area of the NMUT spans more than 1,000 hectares.”

 

Highlighting education as a long-term investment in global partnership, Nicholas Ho, Commissioner for Belt and Road, emphasised Hong Kong’s commitment to building lasting people-to-people bonds across the region.”The strategic partnership between Hong Kong and the Belt and Road countries in education is a long-term investment in people. Through scholarships, internships, exchanges, and the infrastructure of places such as the Northern Metropolis University Town, we are cultivating mutual understanding, shared ambition, and the human capital that will sustain cooperation for decades to come. Education remains one of the most powerful instruments of people-to-people bonds and an engine for future economic growth. Hong Kong is proud to play its part—open, outward-looking, and committed to excellence.”

 

 

For Tammy Tam, Publisher, South China Morning Post, building Hong Kong into a global talent hub starts with bridging homegrown academic excellence with top-tier international institutions. “As Hong Kong’s leading international news organisation, the South China Morning Post is proud to serve as a bridge for these global communities. Over these two days, through SCMP’s platform and our partners, we are proud to showcase a vast network of world-renowned institutions. We start with our home-grown powerhouses, including: The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology—alongside top-tier universities and boarding schools across Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and beyond.”

Tammy added, “Hong Kong’s journey toward becoming a premier high-end talent hub is only beginning. Together, through education, innovation, and partnership, we are equipping all who come here to learn to thrive on the world stage.”

 

For HSBC’s Janet Pang, Managing Director and Head of Retail Business, Wealth and Personal Banking, Hong Kong, HSBC, today’s families are increasingly looking beyond mere capital accumulation, choosing instead to deploy their wealth into the skills and human capital needed for a fast-changing world. “We are meeting at a pivotal moment for Hong Kong. As we work collectively to strengthen the city’s status as a premier global education hub, we are seeing a fundamental shift in how families define success. It is no longer just about the accumulation of wealth; it is about the application of it to create opportunity—and increasingly, it’s about building skills that keep pace with a fast-changing world.”

 

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About South China Morning Post South China Morning Post 

The SCMP is the premier English-language news platform rooted in Hong Kong, reaching a global audience with authoritative and comprehensive insights about Greater China, including Hong Kong’s development. With more than 122 years of publishing excellence, SCMP has been providing insights into key news topics in Asia and global dynamics impacting this region through the lens and perspectives of Asia, while hosting high-calibre events and conferences engaging key decision-makers, top government officials, business leaders and experts. Read more with SCMP: www.scmp.com

 

Huang Can (left), Nanfang Media Group editor-in-chief, and Zhang Jun, SCMP’s chief technology officer, sign a memorandum of understanding on Saturday in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. Photo: Handout 

Shenzhen (September 6, 2026) —SHENZHEN, China — Over 400 media representatives from across the region gathered in Shenzhen on Saturday, September 5, 2026 for the Asia-Pacific Media Forum, a flagship event under the 2026 APEC “China Year” series. Designed to foster cross-border cooperation on content, talent, and emerging technologies ahead of November’s APEC summit in the city, the forum served as the backdrop for key regional partnerships.

Against this backdrop of heightened regional engagement, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) and Nanfang Media Group officially signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a long-term framework for news collaboration, event organisation, and media technology innovation across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

Highlighting the vision behind the agreement, Tammy Tam, Publisher, South China Morning Post, said: ”This year means a lot to the GBA as our neighbour Shenzhen will host the APEC Leaders Summit, while Hong Kong will welcome the APEC Financial Ministers Meeting. SCMP is honoured and pleased to forge this meaningful partnership with GD Today, the only and influential English news multimedia platform in Guangdong Province, to explore greater potential for more collaboration in various joint projects, including comprehensive coverage about GBA, and China, in a fact-based and convincing way to the region and the world. Next year will mark the 30th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, we look forward to having a great partnership with our great partner in Guangdong.”

Huang Can, editor-in-chief of Nanfang Media Group, said he expected both sides to “work together to tell the stories of Guangdong and Hong Kong, the GBA and China” to local, regional and global audiences. Huang added he hopes to work with more Asia-Pacific media partners to share regional opportunities, promote people-to-people connectivity, uphold journalistic principles and present the world with a real, three-dimensional and comprehensive Asia-Pacific.

Under the agreement, the two media organisations will leverage their complementary capabilities—SCMP as an international English-language news provider and Nanfang Media Group as a leading South China publisher—to foster closer exchange and deepen coverage of regional development.

Key areas of cooperation include:

• Editorial & Content Exchange 
• Events & Community Outreach
• Media Innovation & AI

The framework serves as a non-binding foundation for potential joint projects, with specific implementations to be finalised in future agreements.

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For press enquiries or more information, please email: [email protected]   

 

About South China Morning Post 

The SCMP is the premier English-language news platform rooted in Hong Kong, reaching a global audience with authoritative and comprehensive insights about Greater China, including Hong Kong’s development. With more than 122 years of publishing excellence, SCMP has been providing insights into key news topics in Asia and global dynamics impacting this region, through the lens and perspectives of Asia, while hosting high-calibre events and conferences engaging  key decision-makers, top government officials, business leaders and experts. Read more with SCMP: www.scmp.com

 

About Nanfang Media Group

Nanfang Media Group (Nanfang Daily) is a dominant mainland media enterprise based in Guangzhou, Guangdong. Known for high editorial credibility, it provides comprehensive news coverage across South China.

 

 

SINGAPORE & KUALA LUMPUR — (September 4, 2026) — The South China Morning Post (SCMP) today announced the regional findings of its study, “The Intersection of Influence”, following the successful completion of its high-level executive launch events in Singapore and Malaysia. Conducted in partnership with Stagwell, a global marketing and communications network, and its research firm HarrisX, the study reveals that news media with editorial integrity capture unparalleled focus and cognitive recognition. For marketers navigating an ecosystem crowded by generic content, quality journalism remains an irreplaceable anchor of trust and intentional engagement.

The regional study findings were presented during two exclusive, invite-only luncheons that brought together C-suite executives, senior marketers, and industry partners across the region. The Singapore event took place on Wednesday, September 2, followed by the Kuala Lumpur edition on Thursday, September 3.

Both gatherings were supported by leading regional brands and agency partners, featuring opening remarks by SCMP Chief Operating Officer Kevin Huang, followed by a keynote presentation of the research data by Randy Duax, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific at Stagwell.

Key Research Findings

• News Audiences Read with Focus: 64% of adults in Singapore and 65% in Kuala Lumpur pay full or primary attention when consuming news—about twice the rate of passive scrolling seen on other platforms. This intentional reading peaks during morning routines as business decision-makers plan their workday.
• News Leads the Attention Economy: Core news channels (app, website, and print) outperform social media, TV news, and email newsletters in holding audience attention and driving deep engagement.
• News Drives Action: News readers take meaningful next steps after reading—such as searching for deeper information, verifying facts, and informing key business decisions.
• News Elevates Brand Perception: Aligning with a trusted news environment creates a strong brand halo; 70% of business decision-makers tell us they view a brand more positively when it advertises with a news outlet they trust.
• SCMP is #1 for China Insights: When decision-makers in Singapore and Malaysia need intelligence on China’s economic policy, trade stance, and tech regulations, SCMP is their top preferred source.

 

The Power of High-Intent News Environments

Addressing the gathering of business leaders and industry partners, Kevin Huang, Chief Operating Officer at SCMP, highlighted how high-trust environments are essential for brands looking to establish deep, meaningful connections with key economic drivers in Asia.

“Decision-makers read with purpose and act on insight, making them a priority audience for brands. Today, premium news media have significantly greater influence than other channels, especially when your brand is looking for high impact and deep connections to influence the influential.”

 

Randy Duax, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific, Stagwell said “As the media ecosystem gets noisier, quality journalism remains an irreplaceable anchor of trust. Our research with SCMP shows that brands in trusted news environments benefit from deeper attention, stronger credibility and a greater ability to drive meaningful action. At a time when attention is increasingly fragmented, trusted journalism continues to be one of the most effective drivers of influence and long-term brand value.” 

Download the new study “The Intersection of Influence” released by the South China Morning Post (SCMP): Link here

About this study

This study was conducted by HarrisX as a quantitative survey focusing on people in Singapore, Malaysia and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China.

In Singapore, the fieldwork took place over a five-day period from August 3 to August 7, 2026. The study’s scope encompasses two distinct sample groups: a larger sample of the general 

population (1,010 people) and a targeted sample of business decision-makers (170 people). The research comes with a 3.1 percentage-point margin of error, ensuring a reliable level of statistical precision.

In Malaysia, the fieldwork took place over a five-day period from August 3 to August 7, 2026. The study’s scope encompasses two distinct sample groups: a larger sample of the general population (1,009 people) and a targeted sample of business decision-makers (108 people). The research comes with a 3.1 percentage-point margin of error, ensuring a reliable level of statistical precision.

In the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, fieldwork took place over a six-day period from June 3 to June 8, 2026. The study’s scope encompasses two distinct sample groups: a larger sample of the general population (1,193 people) and a targeted sample of business decision-makers (313 people). The research comes with a 2.9 percentage-point margin of error, ensuring a reliable level of statistical precision.

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For press enquiries or more information, please email: [email protected]

 

About South China Morning Post South China Morning Post 

The SCMP is the premier English-language news platform rooted in Hong Kong, reaching a global audience with authoritative and comprehensive insights about Greater China, including Hong Kong’s development. With more than 122 years of publishing excellence, SCMP has been providing insights into key news topics in Asia and global dynamics impacting this region through the lens and perspectives of Asia, while hosting high-calibre events and conferences engaging key decision-makers, top government officials, business leaders and experts. Read more with SCMP: www.scmp.com

 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (August 11, 2026) – The South China Morning Post (SCMP), Hong Kong’s premier English-language news platform, has signed three strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) agreements in Kuala Lumpur with the Southeast Asian Futures Initiative Centre (SEAFIC), Star Media Group Berhad (SMGB), publisher of Malaysia’s leading English daily The Star, as well as The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (Hong Kong & Macau) Limited (MAYCHAM). These landmark partnerships aim to amplify regional perspectives, enhance mutual understanding between the two sides and elevate forward-looking economic thought leadership across Asia.

Highlighting the strategic value of these partnerships, Tammy Tam, Publisher, South China Morning Post, said: “Signing these memorandum of understanding with important partners in Malaysia marks a significant step forward in deepening regional cooperation and serving as a vital bridge between Hong Kong, Malaysia and the wider Asean region. By combining SEAFIC’s expertise and forward-looking research capabilities, Star Media Group’s trusted multi-channel ecosystem, MAYCHAM’s extensive network, as well as SCMP’s global editorial reach and growing influence as an expert voice of China and the region, we are creating a dynamic platform that unites demand-driven policy insights with credible journalism. Through our combined professional networks, this collaboration enables us to expand SCMP’s footprint across Southeast Asia while delivering high-impact content and activities that drive informed decision-making, trade and economic development.”

Pioneering Regional Futures and Thought Leadership with SEAFIC

Through a strategic partnership signed in Kuala Lumpur, SCMP and SEAFIC – a pioneering think tank dedicated to Asean economic development, trade, and investment – will merge research-driven insights with global editorial reach to further enhance SEAFIC as a premier, future-focused think tank. Together, the partners will launch an Asia-focused economic dialogue and co-hosting meaningful events on long-term growth scenarios, advancing thought leadership and building an influential cross-border network across government, finance, academia and industry. 

Emphasising the impact on regional cooperation, Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz, Chairman, Southeast Asia Futures Initiative Centre (SEAFIC), said, “Asean’s competitiveness will be defined by how boldly we prepare for the economic, technological and geopolitical shifts already reshaping our tomorrow. This partnership with the South China Morning Post is our invitation to the region: let’s start designing solutions to equip ourselves for a more resilient future. Through the ASEAN Futurist Conference, we aim to build a leading platform where policymakers, business leaders and thinkers come together not just to imagine Asean’s next decade, but to shape it – with strategies that are both collaborative and actionable.”  

Expanding Editorial, Business and Educational Synergies with Star Media Group Berhad

Building on the existing relationship, SCMP and SMGB will broaden regional collaboration across content, executive events and youth education. Under the strategic agreement, the media groups will expand content exchanges to include mutually interested sustainability coverage, co-host economic summits and link their youth platforms for joint educational initiatives.

Commenting on the expanded collaboration between the two media leaders, Chan Seng Fatt, Group Chief Executive Officer, Star Media Group Berhad, said: “This MOU marks an important step in strengthening cross-border collaboration and reflects our shared aspiration to explore the opportunities that can be created by bringing together the strengths of Hong Kong and Malaysia. As the most trusted and established media house in Malaysia, SMGB looks forward to playing a leadership role in boosting cross-border partnerships through narrative-building and knowledge-sharing. We will work closely with our ecosystem partners to deliver greater value to our readers through the collective journalism expertise from both Hong Kong and Malaysia.” 

Strengthening Business and Gateway Connectivity with MAYCHAM  

​Under the agreement with The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (Hong Kong & Macau) Limited (MAYCHAM), SCMP and MAYCHAM will collaborate to enhance trade, investment and cultural exchanges between Malaysia and Hong Kong. The initiative aims to position Hong Kong as a strategic gateway for Malaysian enterprises into Greater China, while supporting Hong Kong businesses seeking access to Malaysia and the wider Asean region. 

Helena Phua, Deputy Chair, MAYCHAM, said, “We are delighted to partner with the South China Morning Post through this new MOU. This collaboration is a wonderful opportunity to bring greater value to our business community. By combining MAYCHAM’s strong network with SCMP’s trusted insights and exceptional regional coverage, we aim to unlock exciting new opportunities for growth. I look forward to a successful partnership that drives meaningful connections that support our members across the region.”

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For press enquiries or more information, please email: [email protected]   

About South China Morning Post

The SCMP is the premier English-language news platform rooted in Hong Kong, reaching a global audience with authoritative and comprehensive insights about Greater China, including Hong Kong’s development. With more than 122 years of publishing excellence, SCMP has been providing insights into key news topics in Asia and global dynamics impacting this region, through the lens and perspectives of Asia, while hosting high-calibre events and conferences engaging key decision-makers, top government officials, business leaders and experts. Read more with SCMP: www.scmp.com

About SEAFIC 

Headquartered in Malaysia, the Southeast Asian Futures Initiative Centre (SEAFIC) is a pioneering think tank dedicated to advancing economic development, international trade and investment, as well as international cooperation in the ASEAN region. With a futurist outlook, Southeast Asian Futures Initiative Centre (SEAFIC) provides high quality, demand-driven research to address contemporary and emerging regional challenges. The Southeast Asian Futures Initiative Centre (SEAFIC) also acts as a catalyst for informed decision-making, policy formulation, and business strategy development. SEAFIC: seafic.org 

About Star Media Group Berhad 

With a legacy spanning over five decades, SMG upholds journalistic excellence through award-winning work that reflects our commitment to credibility, depth, and public trust. As the media landscape evolves, SMG continues to embrace transformation in an increasingly digital and data-driven environment. Its portfolio today spans print, digital, radio, events, and content marketing, enabling us to engage audiences across multiple touchpoints. Star Media Group Berhad: www.starmediagroup.my

About The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (Hong Kong & Macau) Limited

The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (Hong Kong & Macau) Limited (MAYCHAM or MCCHKM), established on 20 January 2014 by Malaysian business leaders in Hong Kong and Macau, aims to promote and represent Malaysian business interests, facilitate networking and information sharing, support trade and investment initiatives, and connect members with both Malaysian and local authorities; the chamber also participates actively in the International Business Committee and InterCham to foster dialogue and collaboration within the region. MAYCHAM: www.mcchkm.com

 

Image caption: This mockup shows the print and digital redesign for the SCMP launched on August 3, 2026.

Hong Kong (August 3, 2026) – The South China Morning Post (SCMP) is elevating how readers discover and engage with the news in this fast‑moving, AI‑first era. Putting readers at the centre, this intuitive and enriching experience with the SCMP across print and digital is specially designed for intellectual and influential readers driven to make informed decisions.

Chow Chung-yan, Editor-in-Chief, the South China Morning Post, said, “Our readers trust the South China Morning Post for reliable information. As news consumption habits evolve, we are strategically changing our narrative formats and elevating the user experience. By deepening our investigative reporting, expanding analytical coverage, and enhancing storytelling, the SCMP is transitioning its print product from high-volume daily news to a premium, magazine-style edition. We are also integrating advanced AI capabilities to deliver a more seamless, visually sophisticated digital platform. Every initiative reinforces our core commitment: to ensure that engagement with SCMP content is consistently high-value, insightful and rewarding.” 

Today, readers seek print for in-depth analysis, assessment and reflection, while digital platforms deliver instant updates. Since its first edition published on November 6, 1903, the SCMP has adapted to meet the evolving needs of readers while remaining steadfastly focused on the future. To promote a deeper, more engaged reading experience, the SCMP has transformed its print edition into a premium product featuring thoughtfully curated editorial content, unique perspectives and visually rich layouts.

image caption: The South China Morning Post was first published in Hong Kong on November 6, 1903. 

The SCMP app and website (www.scmp.com) now offer streamlined navigation for convenient, on-the-go access, as well as enriched multimedia formats such as photography, video and infographics for active reading. In addition, a new AI-enabled search feature allows readers to easily explore and research topics, making full use of the SCMP’s 123-year archive of reliable, trusted reporting.

image caption: The new AI-enabled search feature allows readers to easily explore and research topics leveraging SCMP’s 123-year trusted news reports and rich archive. 

Tammy Tam, Publisher, South China Morning Post, said, “For 123 years, the South China Morning Post has been your most trusted source of news. Our fresh redesign isn’t just about a premium experience – it’s a renewed commitment to quality and innovation. The slight price adjustment enables us to deliver more in-depth analysis, explore important stories from new angles, and introduce cutting-edge digital features for our readers. We believe that these improvements by our professional and dedicated journalists are worth your appreciation and support, ensuring content that truly matters in a rapidly changing world. Your support is the greatest encouragement to us as we continue to raise the bar for in-depth, impactful journalism.”

In tandem with the launch of our revamped print edition, the retail price of the SCMP newspaper will be revised from HK$18 to HK$20, effective August 3, 2026. 

To access the SCMP on digital, visit www.scmp.com and download the South China Morning Post app on the official App Store or Google Play Store to receive instant access to the SCMP’s award-winning journalism.

 

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Bali, (July 17, 2026) – Organised by the South China Morning Post in partnership with Danantara Indonesia, the Nusa Dua Forum 2026 marked an important step in Bali’s transformation from holiday destination to a rising international financial centre. Held at The St. Regis Bali Resort on July 17, the summit brought together around 120 prominent investors, family office leaders, sovereign fund operators and policymakers from across the region.

Taking place amid a historic intergenerational wealth transfer in Asia, the Forum served as a vital platform for discussing new capital flows, investment opportunities, policy reform and Indonesia’s growing economic leadership in Southeast Asia. The day was set in motion by influential remarks from government and industry figures.

(From Left) HE Rosan Roeslani, Danantara Indonesia CEO, HE Luhut Pandjaitan, Indonesia National Economic Council Chairman, Tammy Tam, SCMP Publisher, The Hon Horace Cheung Kwok-kwan, SBS, JP, Deputy Secretary for Justice, Government of the Hong Kong SAR.

Delegates participated in a series of vibrant and productive discussions spanning themes such as sovereign capital, family wealth, Asia’s evolving industrial landscape, and energy transition. The event was marked by lively exchanges among leaders, high-level speakers, and VIP guests – each contributing valuable insights and forging meaningful connections.

HE Luhut Pandjaitan, Indonesia National Economic Council Chairman.

Tammy Tam, SCMP Publisher with HE Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, Danantara Indonesia CEO.

(From Left) Libera Cheng, HKETO Director-General (Jakarta), Tam, Oliver Weisberg, Blue Pool Capital CEO, Horace Cheung, HK Deputy Secretary for Justice, The Honourable Jeffrey LAM Kin-fung, GBM, GBS, JP, Exco member, Tammy Poon, Blue Pool Capital Chief of Staff.

The Forum proved highly successful in fostering dialogue and new partnerships, reflecting a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regional collaboration. Participants expressed enthusiasm for another round of gathering, and SCMP is eager to continue its strong partnership with Danantara. There is much anticipation for the next Nusa Dua Forum, as leaders look forward to building on the momentum established this year.

(From Left) Oliver Weisberg, Blue Pool Capital CEO, Clara Chan, Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited CEO with HE Rosan Roeslani, Danantara Indonesia CEO.

(From Left) Yonden Lhatoo, SCMP Managing Editor, Prof Mark Beer, OBE The Metis Institute Chairman, Alan Chan, Full Vision Capital Managing Partner, Dr James Riady, Pendidikan Pelita Harapan Foundation Founder & Chairman; KADIN Indonesia Coordinating Vice Chairman for Foreign Affairs, Ali Setiawan, Treasury and Public Investment Danantara Indonesia Managing Director, Phillia Wibowo, McKinsey Indonesia President Director; Co-leader of Public Sector Practice, McKinsey Southeast Asia.     

(From Left) Zuraidah Ibrahim, SCMP Executive Editor, Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Malaysia Investment Development Authority Chairman, Pandu Sjahrir, Danantara Indonesia Chief Investment Officer, Widiyanti Wardhana, Indonesia Tourism Minister, HE Rosan Roeslani, Danantara Indonesia CEO, HE Luhut Pandjaitan, Indonesia National Economic Council Chairman, Tam, Horace Cheung, HK Deputy Secretary for Justice, Jeffrey Lam, Exco member.

The 2026 Nusa Dua Forum reaffirmed SCMP’s dedication to advancing dialogue and insight at the leading edge of Asian business and policy.

(From Left) Roderick Purwana, East Ventures Managing Partners, Arsjad Rasjid Sriwijaya, Capital Founder & Chairman, Pandu Sjahrir, Danantara Indonesia Chief Investment Officer,  Oliver Weisberg, Blue Pool Capital CEO, Tam, Franky Oesman Widjaja, Sinar Mas Agribusiness & Food, Indonesia Chairman and CEO, Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Malaysia Investment Development Authority Chairman.

 

(From Left) Horace Cheung, Deputy Secretary Justice, Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Malaysia Investment Development Authority Chairman, Tammy Tam, SCMP Publisher, HE Luhut Pandjaitan, Indonesia National Economic Council Chairman, Dr James Riady, Lippo Group CEO, Franky Oesman Widjaja, Sinar Mas Agribusiness & Food, Indonesia Chairman and CEO, Pandu Sjahrir, Danantara Indonesia Chief Investment Officer.

The summit concluded with a closing dinner, providing delegates a chance to strengthen the connections made during the day, all within an immersive setting that highlighted Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.

For further insights into the conference discussions, read more with SCMP:

• Bali’s ‘big leap’: from holiday paradise to international financial centre
• Indonesia’s Danantara must ‘outlast’ presidencies to prove worth: top official
• For every dollar invested, we bring in more than 8, Hong Kong investment chief says
• Small firms in mainland China adopting AI more readily than large ones: experts

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• Marking a 45-year milestone, the prestigious student awards outline future expansion plans, including a new AI literacy category and a broader international reach

Hong Kong (July 11, 2026) – The 45th Student of the Year Awards, organised by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) and sole sponsor The Hong Kong Jockey Club, celebrates with 300 secondary students, parents, school teachers and principals on Saturday, recognising the outstanding achievements and talents of Hong Kong students. 

The initiative has been a cornerstone of the Hong Kong academic calendar since its launch in August 1973. From its humble beginnings with the crowning of the first grand prize winner, Tam Hin-cheung from the Queen Elizabeth School, this annual celebration has grown with Hong Kong and amplified the city’s nurturing environment for high-potential youth.

image caption: Inaugurated in 1973, the first Student of the Year Awards, organised by the South China Morning Post, presented the grand prize to Tam Hin-cheung of Queen Elizabeth School, who was an active sportsman and a volunteer life-saver.

This year’s theme “Leadership in Action: Shaping the Possible” underscores the importance of proactive leadership in an era of rapid global change and an AI-first era, recognising students who take actions with an innovative mindset, resilience and a commitment to positive social impact. This year, more than 900 nominations are received, reflecting the drive, passion and promise of the city’s younger generation.

Speaking at the ceremony, The Honourable KK Chan, Chief Secretary for Administration of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said, “This year marks the 45th anniversary of the Awards, a truly remarkable milestone. Over the years, the Student of the Year Awards has grown into one of Hong Kong’s leading youth award programmes. It gives our students a platform to shine, and it pushes them to reach for even greater heights.” 

“This year also marks the beginning of the national 15th Five‑Year Plan period, a critical moment for Hong Kong’s future. To align with the national strategy, the Government is now drawing up Hong Kong’s first Five-Year Plan. And on youth development, we will build on the foundation of the blueprint, and leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland while remaining closely connected to the world…Hong Kong needs bright young minds like you, who are willing to lead, to serve and to innovate. I have every confidence that many of you will go on to shape a brighter future for our city,” Chan continued.

Tammy Tam, Publisher, South China Morning Post, announced two forward-looking initiatives at the event, “In alignment with the national and the city’s vision and priority to make Hong Kong an international hub for education and innovation, on behalf of our advisory board members, I am delighted to share two landmark initiatives in the coming year. Going forward, we will introduce a new award category on AI literacy, underscoring the importance of responsible use of AI. Second, we will strategically extend the Student of the Year brand beyond Hong Kong to elevate student excellence on a broader stage, both at home and abroad.”

The Hong Kong Jockey Club has been the sole sponsor of the Student of the Year Awards for 13 years. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, CEO, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, highlighted that one of their key focus areas is youth and youth development. “For the last 13 years, The Hong Kong Jockey Club has had the honour and privilege of sponsoring the Student of the Year Awards. Through these awards we want you to achieve even more beyond academic success. We want to inspire you to work for the common good and for the betterment of everyone in our society – which is our purpose at The Hong Kong Jockey Club. I encourage you to be intellectually curious and socially engaged. Because leadership is not just about academic excellence – it is about reaching out,  networking and social integration.”

The Student of the Year 2025/26 Grand Prize is awarded to Jayden Tang of Ying Wa College, who firmly believes leadership begins with service. Whether captaining the Hong Kong National U16 Basketball Team, leading Ying Wa College’s Student Ambassador Team or founding the youth non-profit Health is Wealth, he has consistently used his influence to serve others. Through sport, public speaking and community initiatives, he exemplifies leadership that inspires both his school and the wider community. He will receive a scholarship of HK$25,000, an award plaque and a certificate.

To help students unlock their full potential, the SCMP’s education unit SCMP Learn and The Hong Kong Jockey Club also launched SOTY Growth Network last year. This provides every SOTY nominee with privileged access to career exploration programmes, professional resources and high-level networking. Over the past year, the SOTY Growth Network has enabled more than 130 students to step outside the classroom and into the boardrooms, operations hubs and training centres of Hong Kong’s leading organisations.

Here’s full list of awards presented at 2025/26 Student of the Year recognising students’ diverse achievements across academics, sport, performing arts, scientific discovery and mathematics, and community service:

Grand Prize: Jayden Tang of Ying Wa College

Most Nurturing Environment: HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College

Best Devotion to School Award:

• Cheung Ho Ching Amelia of Good Hope School
• Dy Valerie Moreno of Australian International School Hong Kong
• Lam Ka Yiu Khloe of Yew Chung International School – Secondary
• Qin Shukting of Buddhist Sum Heung Lam Memorial College
• Sze Elise Wai Kiu of Chinese International School

Best Improvement Award:

• Lo Eton Yik Tin of Cheung Sha Wan Catholic Secondary School
• Poon Suen Man of Good Hope School
• Suen Kin Yan of Buddhist Sum Heung Lam Memorial College
• Ting Tsz Kiu of Shatin Tsung Tsin Secondary School
• Ting Tsz Ting of Lok Sin Tong Young Ko Hsiao Lin Secondary School

Sportsperson: Gilaine Ma of Diocesan Girls’ School

Community Contributor: Ng Yat San Owen of St. Paul’s Co-Educational College

Linguist (Cantonese): Zhao Jaden of TWGHs Kap Yan Directors’ College

Linguist (English): Zaynab Kola of HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College

Linguist (Putonghua): Qian Zi Zhan of Diocesan Girls’ School

Scientist & Mathematician: Leung Sze Long of Diocesan Boys’ School

Visual Artist: Mao Yan Su of Ho Lap College (Sponsored by Sik Sik Yuen)

Sustainability Advocate: Chiu Wing Yee of St. Mary’s Canossian College

Performing Artist: Sin Seoyeon of Hong Kong International School

Learn more about Student of the Year: https://www.studentoftheyear.hk

Read more on SCMP:

• Student of the Year Awards: 40 pupils lauded as organiser reveals expansion plan 
• Student of the Year Awards: past winners gather to celebrate decades of excellence

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Hong Kong (July 7, 2026) – AI is no longer a future trend, but a present-day priority. The 15th Five-Year Plan has given Hong Kong a clear national mandate to lead on AI and technology, and the city is accelerating its AI+ strategy across industries. This year, SCMP’s China Conference hosted in Hong Kong attracted 500 business leaders, industry pioneers, scholars and top government officials to explore how AI’s full potential can be harnessed to drive the city’s sustained economic growth and long-term prosperity.

Speaking at the conference, The Hon John KC Lee, GBM, SBS, PDSM, PMSM, Chief Executive, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, emphasised that ​Hong Kong is rapidly cementing its status as a premier global hub for innovation, heavily driven by its strategic commitment to scaling artificial intelligence and deep international connectivity. “Hong Kong’s prowess as a two-way bridge between our country and the world is recognised by not only rankings, but also companies from around the globe,” Lee stated, pointing to the influx of over 120 strategic enterprises in high-tech industries such as AI, data science and life health technology, that are set to invest billions and create thousands of local jobs.

​To sustain this high-quality economic progress, the government is actively prioritising AI infrastructure, including the recent establishment of Cyberport’s Artificial Intelligence Supercomputing Centre to provide critical computing power to researchers and industries. This technological push is deeply integrated with national strategies, particularly within the Greater Bay Area and the upcoming development of the Northern Metropolis to foster robust cross-border collaboration. “The HKSAR Government is determined to open up new opportunities for global business and talent, helping them access, engage with and thrive in the Greater Bay Area and the Chinese Mainland, with Hong Kong as their trusted gateway and strategic partner,” Lee affirmed.

Also addressing the conference, Steve Finch, President & CEO of Manulife Asia, said that the company is accelerating its digital transformation across the Greater Bay Area, leveraging cutting-edge technology to revolutionise how financial and health decisions are made. “At its core, technology can remove the friction that stops people from taking action,” Finch noted, highlighting how intelligent systems provide the personalised, intuitive guidance needed to turn long-term retirement planning into reality. By successfully equipping its 11,000 agency force in Hong Kong with proprietary generative AI tools, the company is proving that smart systems can elevate personal service without losing the human element. He emphasised that innovation has clearly enhanced the human touch rather than replacing it, as synthesising complex data instantly allows agents to focus entirely on delivering tailored, empathetic and human-centered advice.

As the South China Morning Post convenes the 12th China Conference, this year places a sharp focus on the transformative power of artificial intelligence. Tammy Tam, Publisher, South China Morning Post, highlighted that “This year’s conference theme spotlights AI for a simple reason – AI is no longer a future trend, but a present-day priority.” This focus reflects Hong Kong’s strategic pivot towards becoming an international innovation and technology hub, under the national 15th Five-Year Plan, with AI integration now serving as a core pillar of the city’s economic agenda.

The South China Morning Post is committed to providing trusted insights and facilitating partnerships that transcend borders, further cementing Hong Kong’s role as a vital nexus for global development. Last month, Chief Executive John Lee led a delegation visiting Central Asia, which yielded 96 agreements with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan worth US$1.65 billion. Among those, the SCMP has also signed two partnerships with Astana International Financial Centre Authority and Astana Hub respectively. During the conference, Tam announced the expansion of the China Conference series to Central Asia, “The story continues to expand toward new horizons. I am very pleased to announce that the South China Morning Post will take the China Conference to Kazakhstan’s capital city Astana in September.”

During the fireside chat moderated by SCMP’s Tammy Tam, Dr Qi Xiaoning, Vice President, Alibaba Group, discussed the future of computing capability and chip design, while highlighting that an open and collaborative model is the foundation for the AI era.

For further insights into the conference discussions, read more with SCMP: 

• Editorial | In the age of AI, Hong Kong’s strategy as a ‘superconnector’ is progressing 
• SCMP’s China Conference to debut in Astana this September 
• AI ‘central plank’ in Hong Kong’s economic development, John Lee says
• Hong Kong should build AI plan around ‘competitive’ strengths, industry leaders say 
• World working together ‘as one ecosystem’ on RISC-V chip research: executive 
• Hong Kong should build AI plan around ‘competitive’ strengths, industry leaders say
• China has potential to become world’s largest consumer market by 2041, policy adviser says 

China Conference Hong Kong 2026 is supported by:

• Presenting Sponsor: Manulife
• Diamond Sponsor: Bank of Communications (Hong Kong)
• Platinum Sponsor: Huawei

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